Vaporizer with night light

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides vapor dispensing devices having improved refill units, detectors which sense changes in the environments surrounding the device, and optionally, make corresponding changes to the device and/or auxiliary devices, volatizable material delivery systems, volatizable material enhancers, nightlights, and various other features.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/650,173 entitled “Vaporizer Features,” filed Aug. 28, 2003,and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/407,393 entitled “Vaporizer Features,” filed Aug. 30, 2002 and toU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/407,387 entitled“Wall-Mounted Electrical Device Having Adjustable Outlet Prongs,” filedAug. 30, 2002 which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

This invention relates, generally, to vapor dispensing devices andvarious features of the same. Vapor-dispensing products typicallyinclude a volatizable material and a transport system configured tofacilitate evaporation of the volatizable material into the surroundingair. For example, in some systems, a liquid is contained in a reservoirbottle; in others, a wax or gel-type material is used. The housing,which typically protrudes from a wall outlet, facilitates theevaporation of the volatizable material into the environment. In suchdevices, a heating element may deliver kinetic energy to molecules ofthe volatizable material. Such units are plugged into a conventionalelectrical outlet, thereby causing the heating element to heat theliquid (or wax) and cause evaporation.

Known vapor-dispensing devices of this type may be improved in a numberof respects. For example, various vapor-dispensing devices (e.g., roomfreshener's and the like) that interface with wall outlets may benefitfrom improved stability and/or improved access to and use of one or moreof the wall outlets. It may also be desirable that refill units for thedevice have improved features relating to stability and its “state”(e.g., the amount of material left in the refill). Improved fragrancedelivery systems are likewise desirable. Additionally, it is oftendesirable to have improved dispensation of the material to be vaporizedas well as having the ability to increase delivery of the material atvarious times. Still other benefits may be realized from improvedindicators of the status of the dispensing units. Further still,benefits may be realized from the ability for the outlet prongs toadjust to various shaped outlet receptacles.

Thus, there is a need for a vapor-dispensing device that overcomes theseand other limitations of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

While the way in which the present invention addresses the disadvantagesof the prior art will be discussed in greater detail below, in general,the present invention provides vapor dispensing devices having improvedrefill units, detectors which sense changes in the environmentssurrounding the device, and optionally, make corresponding changes tothe device and/or auxiliary devices, volatizable material deliverysystems, volatizable material enhancers and various other features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction withthe appended drawing figures, wherein like numerals denote likeelements, and:

FIG. 1 is an exemplary vapor-dispensing device in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views of housings in accordance withexemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 4A-B are perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of a housingand refill in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 5A-B are perspective views of the assembled housing and refill ofFIGS. 4A-B;

FIGS. 6-8 are perspective views of various exemplary alternative refillsin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a front view of a refill with an indicator in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary fragrance delivery systemin accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 11A-C are views of an alternative refill in accordance withvarious aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 13-15 are front views of faceplates used in accordance withvarious embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a refill inaccordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 17A-B are top and front views of an exemplary embodiment of adevice housing for use with the refill illustrated in FIG. 16 inaccordance the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of arefill in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of arefill and housing in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary device having adjustableoutlet prongs;

FIG. 21A is a cutaway side view of an exemplary device having arotatable outlet prong;

FIG. 21B is a cutaway side view of an exemplary device having atranslatable outlet prong;

FIG. 21C-D are side and top views, respectively, of an exemplary outletprong;

FIG. 22A-B are cross-sectional views of an exemplary vapor dispensingdevice;

FIG. 23A-B are front and bottom views of an exemplary vapor dispensingdevice with light source;

FIG. 24A-B are top and front views of an exemplary resistor array withlight source, diode, and multiple resistors;

FIG. 24C is an electrical schematic of an exemplary embodiment of aresistor array;

FIG. 25 is front view and an exemplary vapor dispensing device withlight source circuitry coupled to heat element circuitry.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is of exemplary embodiments of the inventiononly, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability orconfiguration of the invention in any way. Rather, the followingdescription is intended to provide a convenient illustration forimplementing various embodiments of the invention. As will becomeapparent, various changes may be made in the function and arrangement ofthe elements described in these embodiments without departing from thescope of the invention as set forth herein. For example, in the contextof the present invention, the method and apparatus hereof findparticular use in connection with air freshening vaporizer systems.However, generally speaking, various volatizable materials such asinsect repellants, deodorizers, sanitizers, and/or the like are suitablefor use in accordance with the present invention.

Similarly, for illustrative purposes, the present invention isoft-described with reference to a multiple-outlet vapor-dispensingdevice (e.g., a dual-outlet air-freshener) configured to interface, forexample, with standard dual-outlet, quad-outlet, or such otherelectrical receptacles, to substantially maintain (or, indeed, augment)the functionality of the electrical receptacle with which thevapor-dispensing device interfaces. However, it should be appreciatedthat the description herein may likewise be adapted to be employed withalternatively configured devices having different shapes, components,plugs, and the like and still fall within the scope of the presentinvention.

That being said, FIG. 1 illustrates, an exemplary vapor-dispensingdevice 100 configured to attach to an electrical receptacle 160. Ingeneral, vapor-dispensing device 100 suitably comprises a housing 110,at least one plug 141, two device outlets 131 and 132, and a fragrancedelivery system 120.

With reference to FIGS. 1-4, and in accordance with various exemplaryembodiments of the present invention, housing 110 comprises a frontsurface 211 and a back surface 312 separated by a thickness T. The front211 and back 312 surfaces may generally conform to the geometry of themating electrical receptacle 160 (and/or a face-plate associated withelectrical receptacle 160), or may have any convenient shape. Forexample, a rectangular housing 110 may be configured to be approximatelythe same size as a standard rectangular wall plate for a duplexelectrical receptacle (e.g., 160). The use of approximately similardimensions for the height and width of housing 110 as on electricalreceptacle 160, and the use of a narrow thickness T; aids in reducingthe visibility (or increasing the “discreteness”) of vapor-dispensingdevice 100. In accordance with this illustrative embodiment of thepresent invention, vapor-dispensing device 100 is configured such that,when connected to electrical receptacle 160, vapor-dispensing device 100generally mimics a standard wall outlet plate so as to make the deviceless noticeable to those in the vicinity of the device and to allowfunctional access to one or more outlets of electrical receptacle 160.

Additionally, in accordance with various embodiments and with particularreference to FIGS. 4A-B, vapor-dispensing device 100 further comprises arefill 250 (e.g., a fragrance refill) which suitably interconnects withhousing 110 in an assembled form. Briefly, however, it is worth notingthat in accordance with various alternative embodiments of the presentinvention, vapor-dispensing device 100 may comprise any number ofstructures, including comprising a single, unitary structure. Forexample, while the presently described embodiment comprises housing 110which serves to facilitate connection to the wall outlet and heating ofthe material provided in refill 250, in various other embodiments,housing 110 and refill 250 might have different roles, i.e., they mayact cooperatively to provide heat for volatilization and/or fragranceand heating elements may be reversed on the structures. Further still,alternatively, device 100 may comprise a single, unitary structure withall vaporization elements integrated into one unit. For example, invarious non-limiting embodiments, device 100 may comprise the walloutlet itself; that is, device 100 may take the place of the wall plugdevice and faceplate and be integrated with the wall.

That being said, in the presently described embodiment, housing 110suitably further comprises an outlet structure 230 substantiallycentrally located on front surface 211. Generally speaking, outletstructure 230 is a block-like configuration of built up material for, asdescribed below, receiving refill 250. Additionally, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the present invention, outlet structure 230surrounds electrical outlets 231, 232, which are preferably located in asubstantially similar location as the outlets of a standard wall outlet.Outlet structure suitably facilitates the interconnection of housing 110and refill 250, as well as, in various instances, the ability to providepower to other devices through outlets 231, 232.

In the present exemplary embodiment, outlet structure 230 extends fromfront surface 211 a distance of about 5 cm, though this is merelyexemplary and any value may be chosen such that a low-profile nature ofdevice 100 is maintained. Similarly, outlet structure 230 may besuitably configured in any number of shapes and likewise may compriseany number of distinct projecting structures. For example, in thepresently described embodiment, outlet structure 230 comprises onestructure which surrounds both outlets and has a substantiallyrectangular shape with rounded corners. However, outlet structure 230may also comprise many variants of shapes. For example, outlet structure230 may be suitably configured with an “hour-glass,” “circular,” or“triangular” configuration or the like. Similarly, rather than outletstructure comprising one unitary structure surrounding both outlets,outlet structure 230 can comprise two or more separate and distinctstructures, each surrounding another outlet. Likewise, those separatestructures themselves can have any number of configurations and shapes.Moreover, outlet structure 230, as shown in the illustrated exemplaryembodiment, need not have any outlets but rather may simply cover thewall outlets.

Now, in accordance with the presently described illustrative embodiment,refill 250 is suitably configured with a shape and size such that it canbe assembled to housing 110 in a manner which facilitates the minimizingof the likelihood of being noticed by those in the vicinity ofvapor-dispensing device 100. For example, in the present exemplaryembodiment, refill 250 has a substantially rectangular shapecorresponding to housing 110 (similar to a standard wall outlet plate).

In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, refill250 has a configuration typically having at least one lateral supportsurface 251 and at least one longitudinal support surface 252 forstabilizing, guiding and/or retaining of refill 250. For example, in theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4-5, refill 250 comprises an aperture260 to facilitate connection to housing 110. In this exemplaryembodiment, aperture 260 extends all of the way through refill 250,though in various alternate embodiments, to facilitate theabove-mentioned interconnection, aperture 260 may only extend partiallythrough refill 250. Preferably, aperture 260 is of substantially thesame size as outlet structure 230. Thus, in accordance with variousembodiments of the present invention, refill 250 can be placed overoutlet structure 230 to form the assembled vapor-dispensing device 100of FIGS. 5A-B. Thus, the presently described embodiment of refill 250has two lateral support surfaces and two longitudinal support surfaces.That is, as in the above described embodiment, the portions above andbelow aperture 260 act as lateral support surfaces 251 and the portionsto the right and left of aperture 260 act as longitudinal supportsurfaces 252. However, other embodiments having similar support surfacesare contemplated in accordance with the present invention. For example,with reference to FIGS. 6-8, refill may have an “L-shape” (FIG. 6), a“horseshoe” shape (FIG. 7), a “C-shape” (FIG. 8) or any number ofalternative shapes having the support described herein.

Further, in accordance with various aspects of the presently describedembodiment, refill 250 may have various features. For example, refillmay include various indicators for determining the “state” of refill250. In one context, indicators comprise a “use cue” which indicates theamount of volatizable material left in refill 250. Alternatively, “usecue” may provide the ability to determine which volatizable material(e.g., in embodiments containing more than material) is currently beingdispensed.

For example, in accordance with various aspects of the presentlydescribed embodiments and with reference to FIG. 9, refill 250 comprisesuse cue in the form of a translucent to clear window 910, comprisinganywhere from a portion of refill 250 to the entirety of refill 250.Window is preferably located longitudinally coincidental with refill 250such that the amount of material within refill 250 can be observed froman empty to near empty state, to a full to near full state. Similarly,in accordance with alternative aspects of use cue, the indicator maycomprise a level which moves up and down refill 250 in a mannercorresponding to the amount of material present in refill 250. Suchembodiments may embody floats and corresponding gauges similar to thosefound in fuel tanks.

That being said, in any event, it should thus be appreciated a refill inaccordance with the present invention may be suitably configured to havea number of indicating aspects now known or as yet unknown.

In this regard, while the illustrated embodiment is characterized by agenerally rectilinear shape, it will be understood that the presentinvention is not so limited. In various exemplary embodiments, the front211 and back 312 surfaces may be different in height and width from eachother, and/or from the electrical receptacle 160. Similarly, inaccordance with various embodiments of the present invention, device 100has a generally discrete nature often having exemplary features such ashaving symmetry within and without the faceplate to which device 100 isinserted, having corners blend into the wall to which device 100 isattached, or otherwise mimic typical standard wall outlets. These andother features are described in the U.S. patent applications mentionedand incorporated by reference above.

In accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention, vapor-dispensing devices 100 include various activatingmechanisms which cause such devices to begin dispensing fragrance,release dispensing fragrance, increase or decrease dispensation and/orchange the dispensation of the fragrance (or other material to bedelivered).

For example, in various exemplary embodiments of the present invention,the housing may be configured to facilitate heating of a volatizablematerial provided by fragrance delivery system 120. Housing 110 maycomprise a heating element that suitably assists in vaporizing thevolatizable material from fragrance delivery system 120. In thisembodiment, the heating element may comprise a resistance-type heatingelement, preferably of a printed-substrate circuit, though generallyspeaking, any mechanism that assists in volatizing the material fromfragrance delivery system 120 may, typically through kinetic energy, bea “heating element”.

Additionally, momentarily, it should be noted, that in variousalternative embodiments of the present invention, vapor-dispensingdevice 100 may be a “passive” vaporizer. Stated otherwise, the materialof fragrance delivery system 120 may volatize merely by exposure toambient conditions (e.g., room temperature). Thus, no heating elementmay be required. Fragrance delivery system 120 may also comprise othermaterial delivery systems such as, for example, gel and/or membrane typefragrance dispensers. In such cases, the volatizable material might bein a “gel” and/or semi-permeable solid form that dispenses throughmechanisms such as sublimation. Thus, it should be appreciated that anyfragrance delivery mechanism now known or as yet unknown in the art cansuitably be configured to be used in the present invention.

Heating elements may be suitably configured to be adjustable to varyingtemperatures. In accordance with various aspects of the presentinvention, a switch may also be suitably configured to control thevarying temperature of a heating element and/or provide the ability toturn the unit ON and OFF. For example, with momentary reference back toFIG. 5, in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, switchcomprises a slide-type control 550. Similarly, dispensers havingvariable temperature control can provide the ability to increase ordecrease the amount of fragrance dispensed depending on the intensityand strength of heat provided by heating element, user desiredperformance, room size and the like.

Alternative embodiments of the present invention, activating mechanismswhich cause vapor-dispensing devices to begin dispensing fragrance orcease dispensing fragrance, increase or decrease dispensation offragrance and/or change the fragrance.

For example, in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention,device 100 may be configured with a timing device which activates device100 at pre-determined intervals. For example, in the context of anin-home use, timer may be suitably set to activate device 100 whenpeople are most likely to be in the vicinity of device 100. Timer maycomprise any suitable (e.g., known or as yet unknown) analog ordigital-type chronometer for keeping track of time and which is capableof activating and/or deactivating, at pre-determined intervals.

Thus, when such timing devices are used, while people are at work (e.g.,from morning until evening), timer may be set to activate device 100when they are expected home (evening), and deactivate device 100 whenthey are expected to leave (morning). In this regard, benefits such asfragrance conservation, extending the life of device 100 and/or reducingor preventing unneeded build-up of the volatized material are provided.

Similarly, device 100 may also be configured with a variety of alteredenvironment detectors which selectively activate various components ofdevice 100 under a variety of pre-determined circumstances. Suchdetectors generally include any of various photo-, infrared- or othercell-type detectors which are capable of detecting motion, heat, lightor other changing conditions. For example, in one exemplary embodimentof the present invention, a motion or heat sensor which senses thepresence or lack thereof of people (or other living beings) in proximityto device, may be integrated with device 100. In this context, whensensor does not detect the presence of people, sensor deactivates device100; when sensor senses people, sensor activates device 100. Thus, whena person moves into proximity with device 100, device 100 will beactivated and dispense fragrance (or other volatizable material, suchas, in the case of animals, a deodorizer). When sensor no longer detectsa person in proximity to device 100, device 100 is deactivated, againconserving fragrance or preventing unneeded build-up of the volatizedmaterial.

Vapor-dispensing devices 100 containing detectors in accordance with thepresent invention may have additional aspects or uses as well. Forexample, detectors may comprise sensors which activate other auxiliarydevices, appliances or the like, either in conjunction with, or separatefrom device 100 itself. For example, sensors may activate a lightseparate from (such as a table lamp) or integrated with (such as abuilt-in “nightlight”) device 100 when motion in proximity to device 100is detected. In any event, it should be apparent that the foregoing aremerely exemplary, and as such, are examples of alternative aspects ofthe present invention which cause activation/deactivation of device 100and/or auxiliary aspects of device 100 depending on changes in theambient environment surrounding it. Accordingly, other aspects alongsuch lines and falling within the scope of the present invention arepotentially limitless in nature.

That being said, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention,vapor-dispensing device 100 may further comprise a light source 2300.For example, in accordance with various embodiments and referring toFIG. 23A, light source 2300 may comprise a bulb 2301. In one embodimentof the present invention, bulb is an incandescent or fluorescent lightbulb. In another embodiment of the present invention, bulb is an LEDlight. As another example of various embodiments of the presentinvention, light source 2300 may comprise electroluminescent emission oflight.

In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, heat associatedwith light source is effectively dissipated. In various embodiments,circuitry used to vary temperature for the heating element (in thoseembodiments utilizing heating elements) may also be utilized to powerlight source. For example, an electrical circuit may comprise a resistorarray. In various embodiments and with reference to FIG. 24A-B, resistorarray 2400 contains light source 2401, a diode 2402, and multipleresistors 2403. Diode 2402 allows current to flow in only one directionto the light source thereby converting AC current to DC current. Inorder to reduce voltage and current to suitable levels, multipleresistors 2403 may be aligned in a parallel-series configuration. Forexample, in accordance with one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 24C,nine 15-kohm resistors are configured in parallel-series in order toreduce the voltage from 120 volts to 15-20 volts and to reduce thecurrent from 15 amps to 0.1 amps. However, any suitable circuitry andconfiguration employed for powering light source and dissipating heatfalls within the scope of the present invention.

Additionally, in accordance with this aspect of the present invention,light source may be partially covered so that light emanating from lightsource is inhibited or distorted. In various exemplary embodiments ofthe present invention and with reference to FIG. 23B, this coveringcomprises a mask 2302. In accordance with these embodiments, mask 2302may be a lens or a series of shapes cut from mask. Furthermore, inaccordance with various embodiments, light source may be configured toencompass one or more sides of the housing and/or refill component. Forexample, in one exemplary embodiment, light source is attached to bottomof housing such that illumination is downward. In another embodiment,light source is placed on two vertical sides of the housing or refillcomponent. It should be appreciated that any placement of the lightsource in, on, or around the sides or face of housing or refillcomponent can suitably be used in the present invention.

Additionally, in accordance with this aspect of the present invention, acontrol component may be suitably configured to regulate light source.For example, in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention,control component is a sensor sensitive to changes in motion, heat,sound, ambient light, or combinations thereof. In accordance with othervarious embodiments, control component comprises a switch manipulatableby an end-user. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, switchcomprises a toggle for turning light source on or off. However, itshould be appreciated that any component capable of controlling lightsource falls within the scope of the present invention.

Furthermore, in accordance with this aspect of the present invention,light source circuitry and heat control circuitry may be coupled toassist with heat dissipation, and efficiently control device voltagethereby allowing, for example, simultaneous control of light and heat.For example, in various embodiments, control component may be configuredto regulate light and temperature intensity in tandem. In one exemplaryembodiment and with reference to FIG. 25, control component 2500comprises light source control circuitry 2501 routed through thevariable heat control circuitry 2502 and a sliding switch 2503 whereinat a ‘HIGH’ setting, temperature intensity (i.e., fragrance delivery)and light intensity are at maximum. When switch 2503 is at a ‘LOW’setting, temperature intensity (i.e., fragrance delivery) and lightintensity are at minimum. In this configuration, light source 2504 canalso function as a ‘use cue’ indicator as described above.

In various exemplary embodiments, vapor-dispensing device 100 issuitably configured with other improved features. For example, variousbenefits may be realized through optimized selection of wickingmaterials for fragrance delivery system 120. For example, in the presentexemplary embodiment, fragrance delivery system 120 comprises wickingstructure (such as that illustrated in FIG. 10) in communication with aneminator pad having an enlarged surface area and configured from aporous material. For example, eminator pad (and as described below,various wicks) may comprise materials including nylon, porous plastics,various natural and synthetic fibers or other suitable materials,generally being characterized by having pore sizes in the range of about10 to about 30 microns and void volume ratios of about 30% to about 40%,such that fragrance delivery from pad 410 ranges from about 15 mg/hr to25 mg/hr at 50 degrees Celsius and about 35 to about 45 at 60 degreesCelsius. It should be appreciated, however, that alternative materials,pore sizes and void volumes may be selected depending on the desiredfragrance delivery ranges are obtained for given temperatures.

Additionally, in various exemplary embodiments of the present invention,the physical configuration and components of fragrance delivery system120 may also provide improved fragrance delivery. For example, FIG. 10illustrates an exemplary fragrance delivery system in accordance withthe present invention. Fragrance delivery system 120 comprises a chamber405, an eminator 410, and first and second wicks 415, 420 (“noodles”).In this embodiment, chamber 405 is configured to contain a volatizablematerial 425 contained therein. For example, chamber 405 may beconfigured as a liquid filled reservoir, which is functionally similarto the reservoir bottles of now known vaporizer refill bottles. In suchconfigurations, chamber 405 has a hollow section filled with, forexample, a scented oil that is vaporized from fragrance delivery system120.

Eminator 410 is configured to receive volatizable material 425 and tofacilitate the dispersion of said material to the surroundingenvironment. For example, as described above, eminator 410 may drawvolatizable material into a region that can be heated by a heatingelement. Eminator 410 may be configured to be proximate to a first point430 on first wick 415 and to a second point 435 to second wick 420 suchthat material 425 can transfer to eminator 410. For example, in manyembodiments such proximity may require actual contact, though it shouldbe understood that in various other embodiments, “proximity” encompassesnon-contact, where eminator 410 and wicks 415, 420 are near enough tofacilitate material 425 transfer. In this manner, eminator 410 receivesvolatizable material 425 through such mechanisms as the wicking ofvolatizable material 425 from chamber 405. As mentioned above, invarious embodiments, first and second wicks 415, 420 may be made, forexample, of a porous material such as graphite, porous plastic or otherfibrous materials. Additionally, in various embodiments, multiplechambers, each containing a distinct material, may be provided fordispensing a different (or additional) volatizable material and issuitably accessed by each wick.

Similarly, the shape and/or size of fragrance delivery system 120 maychange fragrance delivery characteristics. For example, in the presentlydescribed embodiment, eminator 410 preferably has an area configured toabsorb and transport material 425 evenly over its surface. In thisexemplary embodiment, the area of eminator 410 is selected based uponcharacteristics including, among others, fluid transfer rates from wicks415, 420, the rate at which material 425 wicks through eminator 410, therate at which material 425 volatizes from eminator 410 and the like.

In the presently described embodiment, using a liquid scented oil,eminator 410 is rectilinear, having a length (l) of about 6 cm and aheight (h) of about 1.5, giving eminator a total surface area (includingboth sides of eminator 410) of about 9 sq. cm. In the same embodiment,wicks 415, 420 have generally rectilinear shapes as well, having lengths(l) of about 10 cm and widths (w) of about 0.5 cm.

It will be appreciated that with various alternative embodiments of thepresent invention, fluid transport system 120, eminator 410 and/or wicks415, 420 may have other than rectilinear shapes (and still have the samesurface area) and likewise, may have similar shapes, but differentsurface areas, yet still fall within the ambit of the present invention.

For example, FIG. 16 shows an alternative fluid transport system inaccordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, refill 250comprises a “tube” like reservoir 270 for containing material 425. Tubeis configured to be placed in housing 110 of device 100, which invarious embodiments, allows easy refilling of the device 100 and/orfacilitates control of intensity, for example, through adding varyingnumbers of tubes to housing 110. For example, FIG. 17 illustrates anexemplary housing 110 configured for retention of refills in tube shapedrecesses 300. As illustrated, housing 110 is suitably configured forretention of two refills, though it should be apparent that housing 110may be configured with additional or fewer recesses 300 depending onvarious applications of device 100. Similarly, regardless of the numberof recesses 300, such configurations may have additional benefits ofallowing a user of device 100 to vary the number of refills placed inhousing 110 to vary, among other aspects, intensity/amount of material425 diffused. Additionally, as described in more detail below, variousre-sealable access mechanisms may be provided which can be opened forinsertion of refills, and closed once refills are inserted.

In various exemplary embodiments, a stopper 280 is provided formaintaining material 425 in reservoir 270. Stopper 280 is preferablycomprised of a material capable of transporting material 425 to theenvironment surrounding refill 250, thereby performing similar toeminator 410 in the embodiment described above. In a preferredembodiment, stopper 280 comprises a plug-like element formed from porousplastic, though any number of now known or as yet unknown materials,typically having void volumes and pore sizes selected as described abovemay likewise be substituted. Additionally, with momentary reference toFIG. 18, stopper comprises a plurality of “fins” compressed together.Similar to the porous plastic plug, fins suitably allow the transport ofmaterial 425 from reservoir to the ambient environment where material isvolatized.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, refills 250may comprise other retaining vessels for containing material 425. Forexample, with reference to FIG. 19, refills 250 comprise puck shapedvessels. In this embodiment, pucks 250 contain a gel type air freshener,though, in various alternative embodiments, pucks 250 may containvarious others forms of material 425. Similar to the embodimentsdescribed above, housing 110 is configured to receive one or more ofpucks 250, and, as described above, may allow a user to select thenumber of pucks 250 placed in device 110 to, among other things, controlintensity and amount of material 425 dispersed.

It should thus be appreciated that refills 250 generally comprise manyknown or as yet unknown configurations which are capable of retaining amaterial to be volatized (e.g., gel, liquid, oil, etc.), yet allowingpassage as desired to a surrounding environment.

In accordance with various embodiments, and with exemplary reference toFIGS. 16 and 18, one or more dip sticks 290 is provided for assisting inthe transport of material 425 to stopper 280, similar to wicks 415, 420described above. In the presently described embodiment, dip stick 290has a thin, string-like configuration which transports material 425 tostopper 280.

Optionally, in various exemplary embodiments, in the context ofactivation/deactivation of device 100, a transport inhibitor may beprovided for preventing volatizable material 425 from passing fromchamber 405 to eminator 410 (e.g., via wicks 415, 420) until a desiredor proscribed time. For example, prior to use of device 100 (e.g.,during shipping or storage), it is often desirable to limit or preventthe transfer of volatizable material 425 between to eminator 410. Inaccordance with the present optional aspect of the invention, astructure comprised of a material impermeable to volatizable material425 prevents the passage of material 425 from passing to either wicks415, 420 (and thus to eminator 410) and/or to eminator 410. For example,the impermeable structure prevents contact between eminator 410 andwicks 415, 420, for example at contact points 430, 435, therebypreventing the passage of material 425 from chamber 405 to eminator 410via wicks 415, 420. However, when the structure is removed, contactbetween eminator 410 and wicks 415, 420 occurs and transfer ofvolatizable material 425 likewise can occur. Similarly, it should beappreciated that placing the impermeable structure directly betweenwicks 415, 420 and the actual material 425 in chamber 405 likewiseultimately prevents the passage of material 425 to eminator 410.

In the presently described exemplary embodiment, the impermeablestructure comprises a “rip-cord” device 440A, 440B which is impermeableby volatizable material 425 (e.g. plastic, metal foil or the like) isplaced at contact points 430, 435. Rip-cord 440A, 440B comprises aprotrusion (441), such as a grasping tab, which can be grasped by theuser and pulled clear of fragrance delivery system 120, thereby allowingthe passage of material 425 to eminator 410. It should be appreciatedthat in its various embodiments, multiple rip-cords may be needed,generally determined by the number of contact points and/or idealplacement of structure for blocking the passage of the volatizablematerial. Additionally, in accordance with various embodiments,rip-cords may be removed by a number means, including one protrusion forgrasping which removes all rip-cords, or multiple protrusions, dependingon which rip-cords are intended to be removed.

Similarly, in embodiments where rip-cords are selectively removed,benefits including a choice of dispensation of volatizable material canbe realized by the removal of the selected rip-cord. For example, in thecontext of a fragrance vaporizer, multiple scents may be dispenseddepending on the choice. Likewise, after the vacating of one chamber hasoccurred, device 100 can have continued use by the removal of anotherrip-cord, thereby providing passage of volatizable material from anotherchamber.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, as mentionedbriefly above, the configuration of housing 110 and/or refill 250 mayallow selective access to facilitate the placement of refill 250 inhousing 110 and/or provide access to transport inhibitor. For example,with reference to FIGS. 11A-C, refill 250 further comprises access totransport inhibitor through a door 251 connected to refill 250 byhinge(s) 252. In this embodiment, door 251 is proximate to transportinhibitor (rip-cords) such that when door 251 is opened, rip-cords areaccessible for removal. Optionally, door 251 is proximate to eminator410 (as in the illustrated embodiments), thereby providing furtherbenefits such as exposure to the environment. Further still, withreference to the same FIGS., when door 251 is in an open position,refills 250 are suitably insertable/removable.

Further, door 251 may provide easier access for the purpose of fillingrefill 250. For example to fill, door 251 is opened and volatizablematerial is inserted into refill 250. Additionally such access may alsoprovide the ability to ensure proper placement of wicks and eminator, asdiscussed above.

Further still, in embodiments similar to those described above, door 251may provide further features relating to activation and/or safety. Forexample, the opening or closing of door 251 may selectively close thecircuit containing the heating element. For example, the opening orclosing of door 251 may selectively close the circuit containing theheating element. For example, closing door 251 may close the circuit,thereby allowing heating element to be activated; thus, heating elementwould only operate when closed, thus improving safety.

Lastly, it should be noted that though access is provided through a“door” in the embodiments discussed above, any mechanism which providessuch access, and not necessarily a “door” in its ordinary context fallswithin the meaning of “access” in the context of the present invention.

In accordance with still another aspect of the presently describedembodiment, orientation of wicks 415, 420 suitably provide the abilityfor fragrance delivery system 120 to operate in multiple/non-standardpositions. For example, as can be gleaned from the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 10, in the vertical position shown, wicks 415, 420allow passage of volatizable material 425 upwards to eminator 410.However, in non-vertical positions, such as where the outlets into whichvapor-dispensing device 100 is plugged is not oriented vertically, wicks415, 420 still remain in substantial contact with volatizable material425, thus still providing the passage of volatizable material 425 toeminator 410, thereby allowing fragrance delivery system 120 to operatein a variety of non-vertical positions.

In accordance with the presently described illustrative embodiment,fragrance delivery system 120 is suitably configured to have the shapeand size of housing 110 such that it can be assembled to housing 110 ina manner that facilitates the minimizing of the likelihood of beingnoticed by those in the vicinity of vapor-dispensing device 100. Forexample, as described above in the present exemplary embodiment,fragrance delivery system 120 has a substantially rectangular shapecorresponding to housing 110 (similar to a standard wall outlet plate).Additionally, the presently described embodiment may suitably exhibitimproved stability, and/or facilitate the interaction of heatingelements (to the extent that heating elements are included invapor-dispensing device 100) with fragrance delivery system 120.

In accordance with further aspects of the present invention, benefitsmay be obtained through the configuration of device 100 itself, forexample, through the addition and configuration of vents on housing 110,refills for device 100 and/or other components of device 100. Forexample, with momentary reference to FIGS. 4B and 12, housing 110 issuitably configured with vents 315 which allow passage of volatilizedfragrance from device 100. In this exemplary embodiment, vents 315 arepreferably located in proximity to an emanating pad (or other fragrancedeliverer) on an upper surface 316 of housing 110. However, it should beappreciated that in alternative embodiments, vents 315 may be situatedon other components of device 100, particularly, in cases where thefragrance is emitted elsewhere on device 100. For example, in someinstances, fragrance may be emitted directly from refill units fordevice 100, and to facilitate the same, vents 315 are located on suchrefills.

Accordingly, vents in accordance with the present invention may take anumber of configurations, and may provide various benefits, includingimproved dispensation of fragrance from device 100 through mechanismsincluding faster fragrance transport to the ambient environment.

In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention, additional fragrance dispensation improvements may beobtained through fragrance boosting mechanisms used with or withoutimprovements to vents and fragrance delivery systems. In this context,fragrance boost mechanisms generally comprise structure which improvesfragrance dispensation into the ambient environment under circumstancesincluding improved or heightened steady delivery over time and/orone-time fragrance intensifying “boosts.”

For example, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention, fragrance boosting mechanism may comprise a fan, which uponactivation, increases air flow in the vicinity of fragrance deliverysystem 120, thereby increasing the dispensation of fragrance from device100. In accordance with various aspects of such embodiments, the fan maybe selectively operated to increase fragrance dispensation. For example,through use of an ON/OFF switch, when switched to an “ON” position, thefan is active, thereby increasing fragrance dispensation for sustainedintervals. Alternatively, the fan may be turned ON briefly, formomentary boosts in the intensity of fragrance dispensed. Optionally, inconnection with various exemplary embodiments, fan may be activated bythe aforementioned altered environment detectors (e.g., motion sensors)when environment altering conditions (e.g., people present near device100) occur.

In accordance with alternative embodiments of the present invention,“boosting” may occur through alternative mechanisms. For example, use ofa transport mechanism may nearly instantly release an increased amountof fragrance. Such mechanisms may comprise pressurized, aerosol typemechanism built in to device 100, which, when activated propel asubstantially instantaneous burst of fragrance. Such aerosol device aretypically powered by a pressurized container which ejects from fragrance(e.g., from a main fragrance reservoir of device or an alternative,supplemental reservoir) into the ambient environment. However,alternatively, rather than using a pressurized container, the transportmechanism may comprise a mechanical type pump and spray apparatus (suchas those known in the art) which transports fragrance from a reservoirby mechanical activation (e.g., pressing a pump). In any event, itshould be appreciated that any device now known or as yet unknown, andvariations of the same, which is capable of momentarily delivering aburst of fragrance falls within the scope of the present invention.

Housing 110 may be configured in various ways for attachment toelectrical receptacle 160. In an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention, housing 110 is configured to be attachable to electricalreceptacle 160 via one or more plugs (e.g., plugs 141 and 142 shown inFIG. 1). For example, with reference back to FIGS. 3-5, a first plug 341is suitably configured to extend from the back surface 312 of housing110. A second plug 342 may also be configured to extend from the back ofsurface 312. In this illustrated embodiment, first and/or second plug(s)341 and 342 comprise conventional (and/or standardized) two prongplug(s) configured to be inserted into a standard duplex electricalreceptacle. In general, however, the plugs may comprise any suitablemale or female component (whether electrically functional ornon-functional) configured to interface with corresponding structurewithin electrical receptacle 160.

Housing 110 may also be attached to electrical receptacle 160 via asuitable fastener (e.g., a conventional screw) located, for example, atthe center or ends of the electrical receptacle. In another example,clips, Velcro brand fasteners, snaps, and/or the like may be suitablyused to attach housing 110 to electrical receptacle 160.

Device outlets 131 and 132 are generally configured to mirror thefunctionality provided by the type (or types) of outlets 171 and 172disposed within receptacle 160. The use of device outlets 131 forelectrical needs thereby increases the inconspicuousness ofvapor-dispensing device 100. For example, the illusion thatvapor-dispensing device 100 is merely a typical outlet is maintained byallowing other devices (e.g., lamps, televisions, clocks, etc.) to beplugged into the same outlet. For example, outlets 171 and 172 maycorrespond to standard two-pronged electrical AC outlets found in manyhomes. In this case, it may be advantageous to likewise configurehousing 110 to include standard two-pronged electrical outlets 131 and132 which substantially correspond in location in geometry to thatprovided by receptacle 160.

Device outlets 131 and 132 may be electrically coupled to correspondingoutlets 171 and 172, or may configured with any suitable electricaltopology that provides the desired functionality of device 100. Forexample, a single plug 141 may be configured to be electrically coupledto more than one device outlet (e.g., 131 and 132) in housing 110.Furthermore, additional plugs may be configured, in variouscombinations, to be electrically coupled to one or more deviceoutlet(s). In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, firstplug 341 is configured to provide power from first receptacle outlet 171to two or more device outlets (e.g., 131 and 132). In another exemplaryembodiment of the present invention, first plug 341 is configured toprovide power from receptacle outlet 171 to first device outlet 231, andsecond plug 342 is also configured to provide power from receptacleoutlet 172 to device outlet 232.

An exemplary beneficial aspect of the above-described embodiments havingfunctional outlets includes the ability to stack dispensing devices.That is, as each unit mimics the outlet unto which it is connected,additional devices can be plugged into already inserted devices, therebyproviding the ability to stack the devices and, among other things,obtained enhanced delivery of the material to be dispensed, createcombinations of material to be dispensed and the like.

Alternatively, one or more plugs may be non-functional (or “dummy”plugs). Such non-functional plugs, which may comprise any suitableplastic or other insulating material, may provide structural support ofthe vapor-dispensing device. Alternatively, a metallic material may beused for the non-conducting plugs to the extent that the non-functionalplug is configured such that a circuit is not formed by that plug.

As mentioned above, electrical receptacle 160 may include any standardwall outlet fixture configured for receiving electrical plugs, such asplugs provided on one end of a power cord. In the above-describedembodiments, electrical receptacle 160 comprises two or more outlets 171and 172. For example, FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary electricalreceptacle 560 comprising a face plate 561 and two or more outlets(e.g., 562, and 563). Face plate 561 may comprise openings suitable forexposing one or more outlets. Various styles and designs of face platesmay be used.

Electrical receptacle 160 may also comprise various numbers of outlets.With reference to FIG. 14, an exemplary dual outlet electricalreceptacle 600 is illustrated. With reference to FIG. 15, an exemplaryfour outlet electrical receptacle 700 is illustrated. Other outletnumbers and arrangements may suitably be used. The number of deviceoutlets 131 may not correspond to the number of electrical receptacleoutlets provided on the housing. For example, two electrical receptacleoutlets may be covered and four device outlets provided for use. Thus,vapor-dispensing device 100 may serve as an adapter splitting one pluginto two or more device outlets.

In accordance with additional aspects of various embodiments of thepresent invention, an electrical device for insertion into an electricalreceptacle which is capable of adapting to receptacles of varying sizesand dimensions. Briefly, as used herein “adaptive” refers to the abilityto adjust to fit a differently sized or spaced receptacle, and as such,shall be synonymous with “adjustable” and other like meaning terms.

For example, with reference to FIG. 20, an example of a wall-mounteddevice 2000 (such as an air freshener, battery charger or the like) inaccordance with the present invention suitably includes a housing 2001and two or more outlet plugs 2002 and 2003 capable of electricallyinterfacing with an electrical receptacle having two or more outlets.For example, the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 2004 is a“duplex” device.

In the context of a duplex embodiment, each of the two plugs 2002 and2003 suitably include two or more outlet prongs (e.g. prongs 2004 and2005 for plug 2002, and prongs 2006 and 2007 for plug 2003) that can beinserted into the holes of a conventional electrical receptacle. Inaccordance with various electrical standards, one of the prongs2005/2007 corresponding to the electrically active or “hot” portion ofthe electrical receptacle may be slightly larger in size than the otherprong 2006/2001, which generally corresponds to “neutral” or “ground”.Although not shown in FIG. 20, a third “ground” prong may also bepresent on alternate embodiments of each electrical plug 2002/2003.

Because device 2000 includes multiple plugs 2002/2003, each of which isdesigned to be inserted into one outlet in a multi-outlet receptacle,each prong 2006/2007 of one or more of the plugs 2003 is configured toadapt or otherwise move, rotate, translate, etc. and/or to accommodatereceptacles of varying dimensions. For example, in one embodiment, eachprong 2006/2007 is free to move within the confines of a slot 2008formed in housing 2001. The size of slot 2008 suitably corresponds tothe extent of movement required by a particular embodiment. For device2000 to accommodate both conventional North American standard and GFCIduplex receptacles, for example, a movement of about ⅛-¼ inch (or about1-4 millimeters) may be sufficient. Of course the exact amount ofmovement needed will vary from embodiment to embodiment, and may bebased upon electrical standards, building codes and the like.

In various embodiments, to adapt, as a user inserts device 2000 into anelectrical receptacle, the movable prongs 2006/2007 suitably translateand/or rotate as appropriate to interface with the outlet. For example,in the embodiment shown in FIG. 20, prongs 2004/2005 are inserted intothe topmost outlet of the receptacle, and movable prongs 2006/2007suitably adjust to the outlet holes of the bottom outlet as device 20000is inserted into the receptacle. Prong placement and insertion may befurther aided by designing the length of prongs 2006/2007 to be shorterthan the length of non-movable prongs 2004/2005, for example, or byshaping movable prongs 2006/2007 with a beveled, slanted, rounded orsimilar-shaped edge.

With reference now to FIG. 21A, a device 2000 which adapts via rotatableprongs 2006/2007 is shown. Although prong 2007 is not visible in theview shown in FIG. 3A, the structures shown for prong 2006 could bereadily implemented on the other prongs of device 2000. Prong 2006 issuitably fashioned with a notch or hole that is capable of accepting apin 3000 or other outcropping so that the pin serves as a pivot pointfor prong 2006. Pin 3000 is any pivot point that is rigidly fixed withrespect to housing 2001. In one embodiment, pin 3000 is fashioned as anoutcropping of housing 2001 through appropriate fabrication techniquessuch as injection molding. Alternatively, pin 3000 may be implemented asa separate metal, plastic other object that may be inserted into agroove, hole or other recession in housing 2001 such that pin 3000 isrigidly held in place. A spring 3001 or other elastic member (such as aplastic finger, a rubber band, or any other structure) may be optionallyprovided to bias prong 2006 into a desired initial position or to holdprong 2006 in place prior to or after insertion. Spring 3001 may becoupled to any point of prong 2006, and may be attached to housing 2001at any anchor point 3002.

In this embodiment, prong 2006 rotates about pin 3000 in response to theposition of the outlet receptacle to adapt to the receptacle. Forexample, as an external force is applied to device 2000, prong 2006suitably rotates about pin 3000 such that prong 2006 is guided withinslot 2008 to the outlet hole as appropriate. As with the priorembodiments, prong 2006 may be shaped in any convenient fashion toassist in guiding prong 2006 to the outlet hole.

With reference now to FIG. 21B, another exemplary embodiment of a device2000 suitably includes one or more prongs 2006/2007 that adapt bytranslation with respect to housing 2001 to accommodate receptacles ofvarying dimensions. Prong 2006 suitably has a front face 3005 thatinterfaces with housing 2001 to allow prong 2006 to slide or otherwiselaterally move within the confines of groove 2008. In a furtherembodiment, prong 2006 includes a tongue, flange or other outcroppingthat slides within a groove or other guide on housing 2001 to guide thelateral movement of prong 2006 with respect to housing 2001. As with theprior embodiment, an optional spring 3001 or other biasing mechanism mayalso be provided to bias prong 2006 toward an anchor point 3002 or otherpoint on housing 2001. Similar to the rotational embodiment describedabove, in operation, an insertion force provided by the user overcomesthe bias force of spring 3001 to allow prong 2006 to move laterallywithin groove 2008 to interface with the outlet receptacle.

FIGS. 21C-D are side and top views, respectively, of an exemplary prong2006/2007 that may be used to implement rigid or movable prongs in adevice 2000. With reference to FIGS. 21C-D, an exemplary prong 3000suitably includes two legs 3003 and 3004 that receive the prongs of anexternal appliance such as a hair dryer, lamp, curling iron, kitchenappliance or the like. Prong 2006/2007 also includes a front face 3005that slides or rotates with respect to housing 2001 as described abovein conjunction with FIGS. 21A-B, and may include a hole 3006 in anyappropriate location to receive spring 3001 or another elastic biasingmember. As best seen in FIG. 21C, prongs 2006/2007 may be formed suchthat the portion 3007 internal to housing 2001 (FIG. 20) is not alignedwith the external portion 3008. In such embodiments, the non-linearstructure of prong 2006/2007 further enhances rotation, translation orother movement as may be appropriate. Prongs 2006/2007 may be fashionedfrom any available material such as metal or plastic. In a furtherembodiment, prongs 2006/2007 are made from an electrically-conductivematerial such as copper, aluminum or the like.

FIGS. 22A-B show top and cutaway views of a device which adapts usingmovable outlet prongs similar to the device illustrated in FIGS. 21A-D.An exemplary device 2000 suitably includes a housing with one or moreoutlet faces 4000 capable of receiving the prongs of an electrical plugfrom an external device (e.g. a radio, hair dryer, curling iron,electric razor, clock, lamp, kitchen appliance, or the like). Outletfaces 4000 suitably correspond to the two electrical plugs 2002/2003disposed within housing 2001, as described more fully below. Housing2001 may be fashioned of thermoformed or injection-molded plastic,metal, ceramic, glass or any other convenient material. Either or bothof plugs 2002 and 2003 may be formed with the exemplary structures shownin FIGS. 22A-B, or with any other plug structure.

With reference to FIGS. 22A-B, housing 2001 of device 2000 suitablyincludes a front face 4001 and a back face 4002 encompassing plugs2002/2003, as well as the various components applicable to the type ofdevice the present invention is embodied in. Each plug 2002/2003includes a set of prongs 2004/2005, 2006/2007 that interface with theprongs of an external device. In the stationary prong structure shown inFIG. 22A, each prong 2004/2005 is formed to include legs 3005/3003 asdescribed above to electrically connect the prongs of the externaldevice with one of the outlets in the receptacle. Prongs 2004/2005 maybe formed such that front face 3005 of each prong is rigidly held inplace within the back face 4002 to prevent movement of the prongs withrespect to housing 2001. In the movable structure shown in FIG. 22B, theprongs of an external device are guided and held in place by legs 3003and 3004, which may be physically isolated from the external slidingportion 3008 (FIG. 21C). A gap 4003 may be provided such that prongs2006/2007 are allowed to translate along front face 3005, as guided byslot 2008 (FIG. 20). Alternatively, a rotational, translational or otherstructure such as those described above could be used.

For the sake of brevity, conventional electrical and mechanical designtechniques used in developing various multiplexing devices (and thevarious components thereof) are not described in detail herein.Accordingly, devices disclosed herein may be readily modified to createequivalent embodiments through application of general electrical andmechanical principles. In a still further embodiment, the uppermost setof prongs may be configured to adjust to variations in receptacle sizein addition to or in place of the lowermost prongs, as shown in theFigures herein. Moreover, although the general concepts ofself-adjustability have been described with reference to a vapordispensing device herein, these concepts may be readily applied to otherequivalent electrical devices such as air filters, nightlights, audiospeakers, wireless control devices, timers and the like.

Finally, while the present invention has been described above withreference to various exemplary embodiments, many changes, combinationsand modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. For example, thevarious components may be implemented in alternate ways. Thesealternatives can be suitably selected depending upon the particularapplication or in consideration of any number of factors associated withthe operation of the system. In addition, the techniques describedherein may be extended or modified for use with other types of devices.These and other changes or modifications are intended to be includedwithin the scope of the present invention.

1. A vapor dispensing device configured with a heating element tocontain a vaporizable material, comprising: a first structure configuredto be inserted into a wall outlet having substantially the samedimensions of a wall outlet plate, further having an outwardly extendingoutlet structure having a thickness, a removable second structure havingan aperture configured in substantially the same size as said outletstructure such that said second structure can be attached to said firststructure; and a light source; wherein said second structure comprises arefill body containing the vaporizable material.
 2. A vapor dispensingdevice of claim 1, wherein said light source is selected from the groupof incandescent bulb, fluorescent bulb, LED, or electroluminescentlight.
 3. A vapor dispensing device of claim 1, wherein said lightsource at least partially encompasses one or more sides of said outletstructure of said first structure.
 4. A vapor dispensing device of claim1, wherein said light source at least partially encompasses one of moresides of said second structure.
 5. A vapor dispensing device of claim 1,further comprising a control component connected to said light sourcefor regulating light source intensity.
 6. A vapor dispensing device ofclaim 5, wherein said control component is a sensor sensitive to changesin at least one of motion, sound, heat, or ambient light.
 7. A vapordispensing device of claim 5, wherein said control component comprises aresistor array and diode.
 8. A vapor dispensing device of claim 5,wherein said control component further comprises a timer.
 9. A vapordispensing device of claim 1, wherein said control component couples aheat element to said light source for regulating light source intensityand heat element temperature intensity.
 10. A vapor dispensing device ofclaim 9, wherein said control component comprises a resistor array anddiode.
 11. A vapor dispensing device of claim 9, wherein said controlcomponent is a sensor sensitive to changes in at least one of motion,sound, heat, or ambient light.
 12. A vapor dispensing device of claim 9,wherein said control component further comprises a timer.
 13. A vapordispensing device configured to connect to an electrical receptaclehaving an outlet pattern with a perimeter, said vapor-dispensing devicecomprising: a housing having a first device outlet and a second deviceoutlet, wherein at least one of the first device outlet and the seconddevice outlet further comprise an outwardly extending outlet structurehaving a thickness; said housing configured to be removably attached toa first outlet of the electrical receptacle; said housing furthercomprising a vapor source configured to contact the perimeter at two ormore points; an integrated light comprising: a light source; and acontrol component connected to the light source for regulating lightsource.
 14. A vapor dispensing device of claim 13, wherein said lightsource is selected from the group of incandescent bulb, fluorescentbulb, LED, or electroluminescent light.
 15. A vapor dispensing device ofclaim 13, wherein said light source at least partially encompasses oneor more sides of said housing.
 16. A vapor dispensing device of claim13, wherein said control component is a sensor sensitive to changes inat least one of motion, sound, heat, or ambient light.
 17. A vapordispensing device of claim 13, wherein said control component comprisesa resistor array and diode.
 18. A vapor dispensing device of claim 13,wherein said control component further comprises a timer.
 19. A vapordispensing device of claim 13, wherein said control component is coupledto a heat element for regulating heat element temperature intensity. 20.A vapor dispensing device of claim 19, wherein said control componentcomprises a resistor array and diode.
 21. A vapor dispensing device ofclaim 19, wherein said control component is a sensor sensitive tochanges in at least one of motion, sound, heat, or ambient light.
 22. Avapor dispensing device of claim 19, wherein said control componentfurther comprises a timer.
 23. A refill component for use in connectionwith a vapor-dispensing device of the type configured to connect to anelectrical receptacle having a first outlet and a second outlet, saidrefill component comprising: a refill body configured to removablyattach to the vapor-dispensing device, wherein the vapor-dispensingdevice comprises an outwardly extending outlet structure having athickness, and wherein said refill body is configured to at leastpartially encompass at least two sides of an outlet pattern defined bythe first outlet and the second outlet; and a volatilizable materialprovided within said refill body; an integrated light comprising: alight source; and a control component connected to the light source forregulating light source.
 24. A refill component of claim 23, whereinsaid light source is selected from the group of incandescent bulb,fluorescent bulb, LED, or electroluminescent light.
 25. A refillcomponent of claim 23, wherein said light source at least partiallyencompasses one or more sides of said refill component.
 26. A refillcomponent of claim 23, wherein said control component is a sensorsensitive to changes in at least one of motion, sound, heat, or ambientlight.
 27. A refill component of claim 23, wherein said controlcomponent comprises a resistor array and diode.
 28. A refill componentof claim 23, wherein said control component further comprises a timer.29. A refill component of claim 23, wherein said control component iscoupled to a heat element for regulating heat element temperatureintensity.
 30. A refill component of claim 29, wherein said controlcomponent comprises a resistor array and diode.
 31. A refill componentof claim 29, wherein said control component is a sensor sensitive tochanges in at least one of motion, sound, heat, or ambient light.
 32. Arefill component of claim 29, wherein said control component furthercomprises a timer.